Executive Summary
In the context of informal settlements (bidonvilles), the revitalization of the main urban artery constitutes a foundational strategy for inclusive urban regeneration. Rather than acting solely as a transport corridor, the main artery serves as a multifunctional structuring element capable of catalyzing spatial integration, economic formalization, service delivery, environmental resilience, and social stabilization. When implemented as part of an in-situ upgrading approach, this intervention enables progressive urbanization while minimizing displacement and speculative gentrification.
1. Spatial Integration and Urban Connectivity
Informal settlements are frequently characterized by physical fragmentation and weak connectivity to the formal city. The upgrading of the main artery:
Establishes a clear urban structure and hierarchy

Connects the settlement to metropolitan road and transit networks

Reduces spatial isolation and marginalization

This intervention transforms the settlement from an enclave into a functional and integrated urban district.

2. Economic Formalization and Local Development
The main artery naturally concentrates activity due to accessibility and visibility. Its revitalization enables:
Gradual formalization of informal economic activities

Development of mixed-use commercial frontages

Improved access to employment and services

Increased local land value captured for public benefit

When accompanied by regulatory and social safeguards, the artery becomes a tool for endogenous economic growth, rather than displacement.

3. Infrastructure Backbone for Progressive Urbanization
The main artery acts as the primary conduit for urban services:
Water supply, sanitation, drainage, electricity, and waste collection

Emergency access and municipal services

Incremental housing upgrading along serviced corridors

This corridor-based approach allows phased, cost-effective upgrading, prioritizing impact while respecting existing social structures.

4. Social Cohesion and Public Space Creation
Beyond mobility, a revitalized artery functions as a civic and social spine:
Safe pedestrian circulation and public lighting

Spaces for social interaction and community life

Improved access to schools, health facilities, and public amenities

Such interventions reinforce urban dignity, social cohesion, and neighborhood identity.

5. Environmental Resilience and Risk Mitigation
Many informal settlements are exposed to environmental risks, including flooding and erosion. Main artery upgrading allows:
Integrated stormwater and drainage systems

Flood mitigation and slope stabilization

Waste management access

Introduction of urban greening and climate-adaptive design

The artery thus becomes an environmental resilience corridor.

6. Governance, Legibility, and Institutional Integration
A clearly defined and upgraded main artery improves:
Urban legibility and addressing systems

Land administration and tenure regularization

Municipal oversight and service delivery

Emergency response and public safety

This strengthens the institutional presence of the city and reinforces governance capacity.

7. Tool for Inclusive Regeneration and Anti-Displacement Policy
When embedded within an inclusive planning framework, revitalization of the main artery:
Anchors affordable housing and tenure security policies

Enables social mix without forced relocation

Prevents uncontrolled market-driven gentrification

This supports urban regeneration without displacement, aligned with international best practices.

8. Phasing and Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Leverage
From an implementation and financing perspective, the main artery:
Concentrates investment for maximum visibility and impact

Reduces risk for public and private partners

Serves as a pilot phase for broader neighborhood upgrading

Facilitates land value capture and cost recovery mechanisms

It therefore represents a high-leverage entry point for PPP-driven urban renewal.

Conclusion
The revitalization of the main urban artery in a bidonville is a strategic act of inclusive city-making. It structures space, enables service delivery, stimulates local economies, strengthens governance, and enhances environmental resilience. Properly planned, it constitutes a powerful instrument for equitable urban transformation without displacement.